Castle of Mithymna (Molyvos)

The Castle of Mithymna is one of the finest Byzantine castles in the entire Aegean — a formidable structure on a headland above the cobbled harbour town of Molyvos. Built during the Byzantine era and reinforced by the Genoese Gattelusi family in the 14th century, its walls enclose a substantial area and its ramparts offer panoramic views across the strait toward Turkey. Open to visitors year-round; summer evenings sometimes host cultural events inside the walls.

Byzantine Castle of Mytilini

The castle on the headland between the two harbours of Mytilini has been fortified since antiquity — the current structure is primarily Byzantine with Ottoman additions. The site commands the entrance to both the north and south harbours and the surrounding sea. Views from the upper walls take in both harbours, the olive-covered hills behind the city and the Turkish coast. Open to visitors.

Ancient Fortifications Across the Island

Ancient city walls and fortification remains are visible at Eresos (Vigla hill, above Skala Eresou), Antissa and other sites around the island. These require more active searching — they are not presented as major visitor sites but reward those interested in the island’s long history of settlement and defence.

The Genoese and Ottoman Legacy

Lesvos spent significant periods under Genoese Gattelusi rule (14th–15th centuries) and then under Ottoman administration for nearly four centuries. The Gattelusi family extended and improved both the Mytilini and Molyvos castles. The Ottoman period left its mark in the stone house architecture of Molyvos, in the covered market areas of Mytilini and in the fountain structures found in various villages.